Kukkiwon hosted a grand welcoming event on the 15th for a delegation of former U.S. Congress members visiting Korea. This event was the first official stop on the Kukkiwon itinerary of the 8th FMC (Federal Members of Congress) program for former U.S. Congress members, which was organized at the invitation of the Kim Chang-joon Korea-U.S. Research Institute, enhancing its symbolic significance.
The delegation visiting Kukkiwon included former Congress members John Sabin (9th term), John Katko (4th term), Vicky Hartzler (6th term), Kwanza Hall (2nd term), Brenda Lawrence (9th term), and Kim Chang-joon (3rd term, the first Korean to serve as a U.S. Congress member, currently the chairperson of the Korea-U.S. Research Institute), as well as their spouses. They had a meaningful time while receiving a warm welcome from Kukkiwon President Lee Dong-seop and Kukkiwon officials.
In his welcoming remarks, Kukkiwon President Lee Dong-seop noted, "The visit of former U.S. Congress members at a more crucial moment for the Korea-U.S. alliance carries great significance," and said, "Kukkiwon will continue to contribute to civilian diplomacy between Korea and the U.S. through the globalization of Taekwondo."
Starting with a tour of the Kukkiwon museum and main facilities, they directly experienced the spirit and beauty of Taekwondo, Korea's representative culture, through activities like signing Taekwondo uniforms, a presentation of honorary 7th dan, a ceremony for the presentation of Taekwondo uniforms and belts, and watching a performance by the Kukkiwon Taekwondo demonstration team. In particular, the bouquet welcome and honorary belt presentation left a deep impression on all attendees.
Journalists from major domestic media outlets were on site to cover the event, showing keen interest. Various press materials were shared in real-time, focusing on interviews with key figures, Taekwondo demonstrations, and the presentation ceremony, adding to the heat of the scene.
[Photo] Provided by Kukkiwon.
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